If you see animal neglect or abuse, call for help

No one wants animals to suffer – but many people don't know what to do if they witness abuse or neglect.

The answer: In WashingtonCounty, call Animal Services at the Bonnie Hays Shelter at 503-846-7041. "We'll investigate the situation and determine if the situation may be in violation of county codes or state anti-cruelty ordinances," says Deborah Wood, manager of Animal Services for WashingtonCounty. Multnomah County Animal Services and Clackamas County Dog Services provide the same assistance in their counties, and the Oregon Humane Society can investigate complaints throughout the State.

If the case is serious, Washington County Animal Services will work in concert with local law enforcement officials. "Oregon has some of the best anti-cruelty laws in the nation. To enforce those laws, a sworn police officer must make the charges. We work in concert with all the law enforcement agencies in the County on these sorts of cases," says Wood.

The Washington County District Attorney's Office vigorously prosecutes animal crimes.

"If you are concerned, call us," says Wood. Not all cases of animals receiving less than ideal care fall under the neglect and abuse laws, but Animal Services will look into each situation. "Sometimes the problem is lack of education – sometimes the answer is for our Animal Services Officers to give advice and assistance to people to help them take better care of their pets."

It's Be Kind to Animals Week – and reporting animals that are being neglected or abused is about as important as kindness can get.